So, how are your New Year’s Resolutions going?
Maybe it’s going well, maybe not.
But before we jump straight into shame and guilt mode, let’s just explore this idea.
The part of us that was making the Resolutions is the mind/consciousness (prefrontal cortex).
But that’s not everything there is.
We usually operate from the subconscious and only react to things rather than actually (consciously) making choices.
We react based on our conditions and patterns, usually created and shaped during childhood.
Those conditions and patterns were created with the best intention at heart: keeping us safe.
And safety means: familiar, known – which is everything that change isn’t.
When we decide to make some changes in our lives, we have to acknowledge that resistance will show up.
So before getting all riled up about it – or going into self-shaming and self-defeated mode, we can try this instead:
- Acknowledge that there will be some resistance – amongst other things, feelings, sensations;
- Appreciate those feelings and sensations – it’s your system communicating and trying to keep you safe after all!
- Befriend them. Yes, you got that right. Listen to those messages. Invite those feelings to a tea, hear them out, stay open and curious for this conversation – you might be surprised at what they have to say.
- Be patient. Real and last longing change doesn’t happen overnight.
- See if you can enjoy the journey. Messy as it is, it’s your journey.
And this is what Somatic Therapy is all about.
Tracking the feelings and sensations, befriending them, processing and integrating them.
There is no amount of positive thinking that can convince us that we are safe, connected, strong and capable if our body says otherwise.
If you’re curious to know more, let’s chat – tap here.
Andressa Taverna
Terra Counselling
Photo by amornchai at Adobe Stock.
Andressa Taverna is a counsellor at Terra Counselling with special interest in Somatic approach, IFS Therapy and Inner Child work.
Andressa is Trauma Informed, Feminist, BIPOC and LGBTQ2s+ Ally – always listening and learning.
If you’re seeking support with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma Processing, Grief, Shame, Relationship Challenges or Psychedelic Integration, we are happy to offer Individual Counselling, Relationship Counselling and Psychedelic Integration Support.